Solomon Brings a Dedication Message For The Temple

II Chronicles 6:1–11
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In this passage Solomon looks back (vv. 1-11). It seems that God’s appearance in “thick darkness” (v. 1) reminded Solomon that God had made His presence known to Moses (5:13-14) in a much more modest tabernacle. Now, however, the Lord ... would dwell in a more permanent and magnificent place (vv. 1-2). Solomon addressed the people in a blessing (vv. 4-11). First, he praised God for having fulfilled His promises to ... David by choosing him and his dynasty, selecting Jerusalem as the divine “residence”, and permitting the erection of a temple (vv. 4-6). Solomon recognizes the presence of the Lord in the audience of all Israel. He gives a brief testimony to the faithfulness of God before offering a prayer of dedication. Solomon shares with the men of Israel that God was faithful in keeping His promise "with His hands” (v.4).

Solomon also looks up (vv. 12-21). We are looking at a great prayer that Solomon gives at the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem. This is a unique prayer from the Old Testament. It is, perhaps, the only passage in the Old Testament that is a formal prayer uttered at a great state occasion. The nearest thing we would have to this scene in America today would be the Inauguration of a President. The whole nation had gathered in the courts of the temple to dedicate the new building that Solomon had erected according to the plans that his father David had drawn, based on the structure of the tabernacle in the wilderness.

Solomon has united the people of Israel. In adoration he said, “there is no God like you anywhere.” A God who keeps His promises. Notice who God shows mercy to (v. 14). His servants who walk before Him with all their hearts. As he prays with all these people, he realizes that God cannot be contained within the walls of the temple (v. 18). He will live with men on the earth. He is interested in human affairs. Walls are important, but revival is more important. The last word in today’s passage points to the heart of this revival.       .

Application

In looking back Solomon remembers the promises of God concerning the building of the temple. When God makes a promise, I can be sure He will keep it. If I want to please God in the things I do I need to be sure that I keep my promisesto Him and to others.